A new kind of TEA Time is coming to public libraries
This spring, Berks County Public Libraries will launch a brand new scienceinspired initiative for youth called TEA Box.
Focusing on technology, engineering, and art (TEA), these explorative experiments will examine the connection between the technology and engineering fields and the already popular library arts and craft programs.
Libraries will host special events featuring TEA Box “creatables” where kids can learn and apply basic technology and engineering principles to simple crafting supplies. Fully assembled creations include electronically powered bristle bots, paper circuits, and intricate origami designs.
“Berks libraries are leaders in out-of-school time learning,” says Marissa Guidara, district library youth services consultant. “TEA Box will highlight some of the various opportunities libraries offer children to explore, create, and pursue their own interests in a fun, informal learning space.”
TEA Box is the newest addition to the growing collection of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM)-based programs occurring in Berks County Public Libraries, including coding classes, STEM storytimes, MakerSpaces, and play time with robots.
“This is just the beginning,” says Guidara. “I’m hopeful that with community sponsors we can expand TEA Box and make it a regular addition to Berks County libraries.”
The Miller Center for the Arts is supporting TEA Box by hosting a raffle for tickets to the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus’ maker-inspired show, “A Cardboard and Duct Tape Spectacular” on March 24.
“I think that [TEA Box] is a novel idea and fits in perfectly with what Bindlestiff is trying to accomplish,” says Cathleen A. Stephen, director of the Miller Center for the Arts. Raffle tickets will be made available to participants at library TEA Box events.
A complete list of TEA Box activities being held throughout the county March through May can be found at www.berkslibraries.org/kids/tea-box.
“Berks libraries are leaders in outof-school time learning.” — Marissa Guidara, district library youth services consultant